Banihal, June 30: In view of security arrangements and crowd management measures for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026, Northern Railway has decided to temporarily short-terminate and short-originate the popular Vistadome Special train service operating between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Budgam.
As per an official communication issued by Northern Railway’s Firozpur Division, Train No. 04688/04687 SVDK–BDGM–SVDK Vistadome Special will operate only between Banihal (BAHL) and Budgam (BDGM) from July 1 to August 31, 2026, or until further orders.
The decision has been taken following security inputs and recommendations conveyed by the Jammu and Kashmir Police Headquarters, Srinagar, aimed at facilitating smooth security arrangements and avoiding crowd-management challenges during the pilgrimage period.
The railway authorities stated that the train service will continue to operate on the Banihal-Budgam section during the period, while operations on the remaining stretch will remain temporarily suspended.
The Vistadome train, known for its panoramic glass windows and scenic journey through the Kashmir Valley, is a popular attraction among tourists and passenger.
Railway authorities are expected to review the arrangement after the completion of the peak Yatra period.
